Every week we ask an area resident to share 10 facts about themselves. This week we talked to Bobbi Busboom, the assistant athletics director, of development operations at the University of Illinois. Busboom lives in St. Joseph and graduated from SJO. She is the daughter of Dick and Lynda Duval and the sister to SJO basketball coach Kiel Duval and SJO assistant volleyball coach Toni Barnes.
What is your favorite childhood memory?
Honestly, high school football season offered so many great childhood memories. State championship games and post-game coaches parties, Saturday film exchange, and road trips were all apart of our fall weekends. Gameday breakfasts with my dad from when I was about 12 until he retired were some of my most cherished times.
What was your first pets name and what kind of pet was it?
Buddy. Puppy. We got Buddy when we moved into our first house right outside of Royal. I was about seven years old.
What are you most proud of?
My family. They continue to teach and coach in our community. They are really making a difference. I admire them for that.
What is the best advice you have ever received and who gave it to you?
Honestly, it wasn’t really advice given verbally. It was the work ethic, demonstrated by my mom and dad. And not only that, but to work harder than everyone else. Get there early and stay late. Do not only your job, but do whatever needs to be done. That was always instilled in us growing up…but it was never really said…just led by example.
What is a book you have read that has stayed with you?
A book that I have actually read pretty recently that really has impacted the way I work is “Radical Candor” by Kim Scott. Excellent read for individuals trying to really refine their leadership skills and be a better boss and leader. It’s a book that has a really strong message and I’ll probably read more than once. I honestly love “self-help” books about leadership, passion, and work ethic.
What is a movie or TV show you could watch over and over?
Remember the Titans // Friday Night Lights (the show and movie)
What is something you always carry with you?
Dental Floss.
Where is your most favorite place you have traveled to?
For work, Palm Springs, California for a golf outing. But I’m headed to Ireland in a few weeks and am hopeful that it will be amazing! For personal travel, Cozumel. It is my favorite vacation spot.
What do you like about your job?
Every day is completely different. I am able to meet such interesting people and organize some pretty amazing events. I have so many awesome co-workers, friends from other schools in this industry, and leaders of which I have the privilege of working. I found a career in which I am able to combine my love for sports with what I do.
What would someone be surprised to know about you?
I’m allergic to a lot. My family teases me that I should probably live in a bubble…and that I’m allergic to life. Dogs, cats, dust, dander of all sorts, many scents…I sneeze a lot.
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